Mysteries at the Monument Season 2 Episode 11 Escape From Slavery

Escape From Slavery is the eleventh episode of the second season of the popular historical mystery show, Mysteries at the Monument. In this episode, host Don Wildman takes viewers on a journey through the history of slavery and the courageous efforts of those who fought against it.

The episode focuses on several monuments and landmarks that commemorate the men and women who risked their lives to escape slavery. Wildman travels to these locations and meets with experts to uncover the stories behind each monument.

The first monument visited is the Harriet Tubman Statue in Harlem, New York. Tubman was a legendary Underground Railroad conductor who helped hundreds of slaves escape to freedom. Wildman meets with historian Kate Clifford Larson to learn more about Tubman's life and the struggles she faced as a former slave turned abolitionist.

Next, Wildman travels to Washington D.C. to explore the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. The museum holds many artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of slavery in America, from the harsh conditions on plantations to the Underground Railroad and the fight for Civil Rights. Wildman discusses the importance of preserving this history with historian Lonnie Bunch, the founding director of the museum.

The episode then takes viewers to St. Augustine, Florida, where they visit the Fort Mose Historic State Park. It was here that the first legally sanctioned free black settlement in the United States was established in 1738. Wildman meets with historian James G. Cusick to learn about the struggles and triumphs of the people who lived in Fort Mose and the significance of this site in American history.

The episode also explores the story of Henry "Box" Brown, a former slave who famously escaped to freedom by mailing himself in a wooden crate from Richmond, Virginia to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Wildman visits the Virginia State Capitol to see the Box Brown Marker, which commemorates his incredible journey.

Finally, the episode concludes with a visit to Niagara Falls, where Wildman explores the story of Josiah Henson, a former slave who escaped to Canada and became a minister, abolitionist, and author. Wildman meets with historian Katrina Shawver to learn about the influence Henson had on the anti-slavery movement and his lasting legacy.

Overall, Escape From Slavery is a powerful and informative episode of Mysteries at the Monument that highlights the bravery and perseverance of those who fought against slavery. Through visits to iconic monuments and landmarks, Wildman and his guests shed light on the struggles and triumphs of the men and women who paved the way for freedom and equality in America.